Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act
Summary
The Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act aims to reauthorize rural cooperative development grants under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. It focuses on supporting the startup, expansion, and sustainability of new and existing cooperatives through outreach, education, training, and technical assistance. The bill also mandates analysis of research data and annual reports to Congress regarding the activities of the interagency working group.
Expected Effects
This act is likely to increase the availability of resources for rural cooperative development. It will also improve oversight and reporting on the use of these grants. The reauthorization extends the grant program through 2029, providing long-term stability.
Potential Benefits
- Increased support for rural cooperatives, fostering economic development in rural areas.
- Enhanced access to education, training, and technical assistance for cooperative startups and expansions.
- Improved data analysis and reporting, leading to better program management and accountability.
- Prioritization of applicants meeting specific criteria, ensuring effective use of grant funds.
- Long-term stability for the grant program through 2029, allowing for sustained support.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of resources if grant criteria are not carefully designed.
- Increased administrative burden on the Secretary to analyze data and prepare reports.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the requirement for interagency coordination.
- Limited impact if the funding level is insufficient to meet the needs of all eligible cooperatives.
- Risk of unintended consequences if the definition of 'cooperative development' is too broad or narrow.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation. Specifically, this act supports agricultural viability and community well-being, which fall under the umbrella of general welfare. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to spend for the general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).